Steven Gerrard has confirmed that Bongani Zungu will be unavailable for this week's Old Firm and the subsequent two games.

Zungu unavailable

South Africa international Zungu was a last-gasp loan signing for Gerrard, joining on transfer deadline day.

However, it seems that he will not be seen in action for the 54-time Scottish champions in the immediate future. Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Gerrard explained:

"Bongani Zungu is currently in quarantine so we sadly won't see him for another 10 days or so. We have sorted him with gym equipment so he can train from home."

Probably for the best

Signed from Amiens, Zungu is a 28-year-old who has experience in one of Europe's top five leagues - this should be an astute signing from Ross Wilson. However, whilst his absence from the Old Firm may be seen as a blow, it could actually be a blessing in disguise.

Without fans at the stadium, the match against Celtic may not have quite as much pressure as normal, but there is no doubt it will still be a tense occasion. After all, it is a huge opportunity for the 'Gers to prove they have what it takes to rival Neil Lennon's side for the title this term.

The last thing Gerrard would want to do in such a situation is throw in a player who has never appeared for the club before and who is still getting to know his teammates.

Further down the line, Zungu is likely to prove how useful he can be. For now, though, his absence means Gerrard has no temptation to throw the man he called "dominant" straight into the heart of the action.

'Gers fans, will Zungu be a major loss for the derby? Let us know what you think by commenting below!